A daring rescue pulls an ice skater from freezing waters in Holmes, New York, after he falls through the ice—here’s how they saved him! Photo courtesy the Dutchess County Sheriff’s Office on Facebook.

ICYMI: Rescue Operation Saves Ice Skater Trapped in Freezing New York Lake

A daring rescue pulls an ice skater from freezing waters in Holmes, New York, after he falls through the ice—here’s how they saved him! 🌐 #News #DutchessCountyNY #NewYork #Accident

DUTCHESS COUNTY, NY – A man’s life hung in the balance as he was pulled from the icy waters of Lake Dutchess on Monday after falling through the frozen surface while skating. The dramatic rescue unfolded in Holmes, New York, located about 65 miles north of New York City. The man, struggling to stay above the freezing water, was rescued after a coordinated effort by multiple emergency teams.

The Incident at Lake Dutchess

The frightening scene began at Lake Dutchess, located at 19 Dutchess Drive in Holmes. New York State Police received the call and immediately deployed several troopers to assist local responders. The skater had ventured out onto the ice when it gave way beneath him, sending him several hundred feet from the shore into the freezing waters.

When first responders arrived, the man was still in peril, with only his arms and upper torso visible above the surface of the ice. As temperatures hovered near freezing, the urgency of the situation was clear.

A Coordinated Rescue Effort

Rescuers worked swiftly to save the man, with multiple agencies involved in the operation. New York State Police troopers, along with New York State Forest Rangers, assisted the Dutchess County Sheriff’s Office and the Pawling Fire Department. The team used ice rescue suits and a kayak to reach the stranded skater and bring him back to safety.

The man’s position in the water—several hundred feet from shore—posed a significant challenge for the responders, who acted quickly to prevent hypothermic shock from setting in.

Health Update and Outcome

After being successfully pulled from the lake, the man was transported to Danbury Hospital with hypothermia. Thankfully, officials reported that he is expected to survive. Police did not release the man’s identity, citing privacy concerns.

As winter conditions continue, authorities urge residents to stay cautious when venturing onto ice-covered bodies of water.

RELATED TOPICS: Accidents | New York

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